Strong Group Athletics signs Imee Hernandez ahead of 2026 PVL season

Strong Group Athletics has continued its aggressive signing spree in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) offseason, securing the services of former Chery Tiggo Crossovers star Imee Hernandez and adding another crucial piece to its rapidly strengthening roster. The move underscores the organization’s intent to reshape the competitive landscape of the league heading into the 2026 season.

The multi-team franchise — which operates the Farm Fresh Foxies and ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles — formally introduced Hernandez on Tuesday, January 6, through a social media announcement. Strong Group welcomed the veteran middle blocker with a message that highlighted not just her physical tools but also the leadership and defensive impact she is expected to provide: “Strong Will. Imee Hernandez adds power and presence to Strong Group’s wall, ready to lock it down at the net. Welcome home, Imee!”

Hernandez, a former University of Santo Tomas standout in the UAAP, turned professional in 2023 when she joined Chery Tiggo for the PVL Invitational Conference. A consistent performer known for her height, mobility, and blocking instincts, she quickly carved a role with the Crossovers. However, her progress was slowed by a significant left knee injury that she sustained during her rookie season, causing her to miss extended time and limiting her opportunities to build momentum.

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Despite the setback, Hernandez fought her way back into competitive shape and returned during the 2025 PVL On Tour preseason tournament, which ultimately became her final outing with Chery Tiggo before the franchise disbanded. Her availability on the market immediately drew interest, and she now becomes the sixth former Crossover to secure a contract with a new club.

POWER UP AT THE NET 💪🏻

Strong Group Athletics add Imee Hernandez to the mix, reinforcing their frontline with the middle blocker in line to suit up for either ZUS Coffee or Farm Fresh.#PVL2026 #TheHeartofVolleyball pic.twitter.com/3MgxHTyioE

— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) January 6, 2026

The addition of Hernandez further reinforces Strong Group’s offseason overhaul, joining an incoming class headlined by veteran scorer Royse Tubino, seasoned setter Chie Saet, and middle blocker Remy Palma. Collectively, these signings reflect a clear strategy: pair experience with emerging talent to build well-rounded rosters capable of contending on both ends of the floor.

At this point, Strong Group Athletics has yet to disclose which of its two PVL squads — Farm Fresh or ZUS Coffee — Hernandez will join. The lack of clarity has fueled speculation among fans and analysts, as both clubs present compelling pathways. Farm Fresh, anchored by a youthful core, could benefit from Hernandez’s stability and leadership, while the rebuilding Thunderbelles could lean on her defensive presence to establish a stronger identity at the net. Either way, her arrival promises to elevate internal competition and add versatility to training rotations.

Strong Group’s aggressive approach this offseason also signals a shifting dynamic in the PVL. With multiple franchises undergoing roster changes and new contenders emerging, teams are taking bold steps to solidify their competitive footing. For Strong Group, the strategy is clear: strengthen every position, deepen its talent pool, and create lineups that can adapt to the evolving pace and physicality of the league.

With Hernandez now part of their expanding arsenal, Strong Group Athletics is positioning itself as a formidable force ahead of the 2026 All-Filipino Conference. Whether she ends up with the Foxies or Thunderbelles, her experience, resilience, and defensive prowess make her a valuable asset — and her arrival signals that Strong Group is not just filling holes, but actively building a roster capable of challenging the PVL’s elite from Day 1.

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